I have had many visitors express their disappointment concerning Corcovado National Park’s rule that requires all visitors to be accompanied by a tour guide. I am personally in favor of this rule but regardless of my opinion, this is the solution for these types of explorers.
The property surrounding Jaguar’s Jungle Hostel is my favorite place on land. The owner of this hidden gem’s is Leo. I often describe him as a mix of Tarzan and Aquaman. Leo is a quiet and modest person that seems to be constantly in the middle of doing something. He was born on the property and has spent most of his life studying the area. The only time period that Leo lived elsewhere was while he attended high school and university. Leo’s parents purchased the enormous property, that borders San Pedrillo Rangers Station, in the early 70’s. Fruit trees were planted around the entire “living portion” of the land and golf course quality grass was grown to provide a soft carpet across this “garden of eden” like environment. The fruit trees, now all fully mature, produce some form of deliciousness throughout the year. The hostel has 3 nice beaches to enjoy, the closest not more than 25 steps from where you will be sleeping. His kayaks, snorkel gear and surfboards are all available for rent.
Now for the best part. Located directly behind the hostel you will find a seemingly endless number of trails that have been carved through the most bio-diverse primary jungle on Earth. The trails created by Leo and his family actually connect with the same trail grid of San Pedrillo Rangersw Station in Corcovado National Park. In fact, if one were to walk from Drake Bay to Corcovado, walking through some portion of Leo’s property would be necessary. Visitors would obviously require a tour guide if they desired to cross over the national park property line, but the point is that there is no difference between the jungles of San Pedrillo and the jungles of the hostel. If you want to understand why that is so impressive, please read the description of San Pedrillo Rangers Station.
Accommodations at the hostel are simple. The electricity comes from solar panels. The water is fresh and drinkable from the tap. Everyday travelers, such as yourselves, volunteer for months at a time. I would guess because most people find the location too difficult to leave. When you see the prices to stay in such an amazing place, you will wonder if you are still even in Costa Rica. Be careful! If you start your vacation at Jaguar’s Jungle, you may end it there also.
